The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Mr O'Dono ghue, yesterday announced an increase in the limit for claims under the small claims procedure from £600 to £1,000.
These changes will come into effect from July 1st.
The increase came about after a review of the existing limit, which has been in place since the beginning of 1996.
The small claims procedure has proved successful in resolving disputes quickly and informally.
The hope is the increase will make it a more attractive form of legal recompense for consumers.
Small claims procedure cases are resolved without the need for the expense of lawyers and cover issues such as return of rent deposits and minor building and plumbing disputes.
In 1998 about 2,500 cases were processed.
It is hoped the increase in the limit will boost the number of cases settled quickly before the courts.